Exploring the charming Ilha de Paquetá in Rio de Janeiro’s Guanabara Bay is an ideal day trip for those seeking a tranquil escape. This guided tour provides a seamless experience, with hotel pickup, a scenic ferry ride, and the chance to take in the island’s colonial architecture and lush landscapes. Travelers can relish a traditional Brazilian lunch and optionally rent bicycles to freely roam the car-free pathways. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply craving a respite from the bustling city, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. However, the true highlights may lie in the unexpected discoveries that await those who…
Good To Know
- A full-day guided tour of Ilha de Paquetá in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, with pick-up service from select locations like Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana.
- The tour includes a ferry ride to and from the island, a guided exploration of colonial buildings, green hills, and beaches, and a traditional lunch.
- The tour is stroller-friendly but not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain, with options to explore the island on foot or by rented bicycles.
- The tour has a consistent 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the serene, less crowded atmosphere compared to other tours.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, and guests are advised to bring water and insect repellent for comfort, with a non-refundable policy in case of bad weather but free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The full-day guided tour of Ilha de Paquetá offers a chance to explore the serene island in Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro.
With 7 reviews rated 5.0, this tour showcases the island’s colonial buildings, green hills, colorful fishing boats, and quiet beaches, away from the city’s noise.
Visitors can stroll or rent bicycles (around 50 BRL) as there are no cars on the island.
The tour includes a ferry ride from Praça XV to the island and back, as well as a traditional lunch.
Pickup is available from select locations in Rio, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller friendly.
Guests should bring water and insect repellent for a comfortable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rio de Janeiro.
Itinerary and Experience
The tour begins with hotel pickup from selected locations, including Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, Flamengo, and Centro.
Guests then embark on a 50-70 minute ferry ride from Praça XV to Paquetá.
Once on the island, the tour guide leads the group to the best locations, showcasing the colonial buildings, green hills, colorful fishing boats, and quiet beaches.
After exploring the island, the tour concludes with a return ferry to Rio and drop-off at the hotel.
The tour includes ferry boat tickets, roundtrip transfer, lunch, and bike rental, making it a hassle-free and immersive experience.
Inclusions and Meeting Details
Typically, the tour includes ferry boat tickets, roundtrip transfer, lunch, and bike rental, making it a hassle-free and immersive experience.
The meeting point for the tour is the Hotel Rio Othon Palace in Copacabana. Confirmation is required at booking, and guests must provide identification or a copy, including for children.
Children under 4 can join for free, but they must sit on their parent’s lap during the ferry ride.
The tour is:
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Non-refundable in case of bad weather
- Open for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Additional Information
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
Guests should be aware that in case of bad weather, the tour is non-refundable. However, there’s a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Travelers are advised to bring water and insect repellent for their comfort during the tour. The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Reviews and Feedback
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and welcoming locals that make the Ilha de Paquetá Guided Tour a captivating experience.
The tour is praised for its charm and less crowded atmosphere compared to other options. Reviewers recommend:
- Bringing water and insect repellent for comfort during the tour
- Exploring the island’s colonial buildings, green hills, colorful fishing boats, and quiet beaches
- Enjoying a traditional lunch at the restaurants included in the tour
- Appreciating the island’s peaceful and tranquil ambiance, away from the city’s noise
The tour’s consistent 5.0 rating across 7 reviews reflects its ability to deliver a memorable and enjoyable day trip from Rio de Janeiro.
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Tour Duration and Timing
The Ilha de Paquetá Guided Tour is a full-day excursion, with the ferry ride to and from the island taking approximately 50-70 minutes each way.
Visitors are picked up from their hotels in the morning and transported to the ferry departure point at Praça XV.
Once on the island, the tour guide leads the group to the best locations, allowing ample time to explore the colonial buildings, green hills, colorful fishing boats, and quiet beaches.
Lunch at a traditional restaurant is included.
The tour concludes with the return ferry trip and drop-off at the original hotel.
With a duration of around 6-8 hours, this comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of the tranquil Ilha de Paquetá.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Ilha de Paquetá Guided Tour includes roundtrip ferry transportation from Praça XV in downtown Rio de Janeiro. The ferry ride takes 50-70 minutes each way, giving visitors ample time to enjoy the scenic views of Guanabara Bay.
The tour is accessible for strollers, but it’s not wheelchair-friendly as the island has no paved pathways. Guests can explore the island on foot or rent bicycles for about 50 BRL. However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.
Here are some key accessibility points:
- No cars on the island – walking or bicycle only
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller-friendly
- Guests must be able to navigate uneven terrain
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Confirming a booking is required for this tour, with ID or a copy provided for all participants, including children.
The tour is non-refundable in case of bad weather. However, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Children under 4 can join the tour for free, but they must sit on a parent’s lap during the ferry ride.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
Guests are advised to bring water and insect repellent for their comfort during the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch at traditional restaurants, but you’re free to pack additional snacks and beverages if desired to enhance your experience on the island.
Is There an Option to Explore the Island Independently?
Travelers can explore Ilha de Paquetá independently, as the island doesn’t allow cars. Visitors can rent bicycles, around 50 BRL, to freely discover the colonial buildings, green hills, and quiet beaches at their own pace.
Are There Any Special Events or Festivals Held on the Island?
Ilha de Paquetá does not host any major festivals or special events. The island maintains a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?
There is no strict dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and exploration. Light layers and sun protection like hats and sunscreen are recommended to stay comfortable in the island’s environment.
Are There Any Medical Facilities on the Island in Case of Emergencies?
There are no dedicated medical facilities on Ilha de Paquetá. However, tour guides are trained to handle minor emergencies and can coordinate transport to nearby hospitals in Rio de Janeiro if needed. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and bring any necessary medications.
The Sum Up
This full-day guided tour of Ilha de Paquetá offers a delightful and accessible way to explore the island’s colonial architecture, lush landscapes, and rich history. With hotel pickup, a scenic ferry ride, and the option to rent bicycles, the tour provides a comfortable and memorable experience for families. Guests can enjoy a traditional lunch and take in the breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay. The tour’s focus on accessibility and convenience makes it a great choice for a day trip from Rio de Janeiro.
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